2014 Canon-la-Gaffeliere (St-Emilion)

Since it gained Premier Grand Cru Classé status, this wine has changed its profile and become more refined than in the past. Elegant nose. Still as vigorous as before on the palate, but more melting and deeper, while the grain of its tannins has improved in quality. A blend of 55% merlot, 37% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet franc. Alcohol content:13,5°, pH: 3,6 (standard). 93 points

The Château Canon-la-Gaffelière 2014 is a blend of 55% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Franc and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon picked between 25 September to 9 October. Stephan von Neipperg told me that this is the first vintage that the estate is certified organic. Matured in 70% new oak barrels, it has a really quite sensual bouquet with lascivious red cherries and strawberry fruit lavished in new oak that is completely in sync. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, crisp acidity, harmonious as usual. It is not the most sophisticated Canon-la-Gaffelière that you will ever taste, but there is engaging freshnes s and impressive length here. I suspect it will settle amongst the upper band of my score once in bottle. Very fine. 90-92 points

There is something of a house style to the properties that Stephan von Neipperg owns, but it`s a style that`s extremely appealing. This organically certified property has made a very smart 2014: deceptively forward, mineral and complex with fruit purity and well integrated oak. 94 points